As the weather gets warmer, sunny days warrant a delicious meal by the sea, and where better to spend a few hours than in the beautiful seaside town of Dalkey? Whether you’re after homemade pasta and pizza, some tasty pub grub or the freshest seafood around, these restaurants in Dalkey will cover all the bases.
Benito’s
Looking for pizza, pasta, and what is basically carb heaven? Benito’s is an Italian restaurant in Dalkey, serving up homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas and authentic Italian dishes. A carefully curated drinks list awaits, offering a range of Italian and international wines, as well as some classic cocktails to pair perfectly with your food – Aperols, anyone?
Deville’s
Bistro dining is a great choice if you’re out with a group of people, because each person will certainly be satisfied, and this is what Deville’s is all about. Whether it’s prime Irish steak, slow roasted pork belly, or some Surf n Turf, each dish is made with love and the best ingredients to make for an impressive meal. A relaxed atmosphere and some good wine is what you’ll find at Deville’s, it’s worth a visit.
1909
Want the chance to rub shoulders with a poet, writer or musician? 1909 is not only regularly visited by some talented artists, but it’s also home to some tasty offerings. You’ll find classic dishes here with a unique twist – stuffed Yorkshire puddings, anyone? The sister spot to the Millstone Restaurant in the city centre, 1909 also serves an impressive selection of wines, perfect to pair with a steak or some fish.
Jaipur
With a contemporary twist on Indian dishes, incorporating the six rasas – sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent – into their dishes, Jaipur serves Indian food, reimagined. Adorning the walls is art from the owner’s favourite artists, which you can admire as you dine on some inviting dishes. Here, you’ll find both modern twists on Indian dishes, like duck Tikka and Andhra cashew chicken, as well as the classics we all know and love, like butter chicken and saag paneer. Indulge your senses at Jaipur.
Kathmandu
An authentic taste of Nepal awaits at Kathmandu. Fragrant, flavourful dishes are the aim of the game here, serving everything from sizzler specials, to chef recommended dishes like their famous Kathmandu curry, to a range of Biryanis. You’ll also find a selection of their house wines to pair with your food, and with their cosy atmosphere, you’re sure to be relaxed as you dine at Kathmandu.
Ouzos
Can’t decide between steak or fish? At Ouzos, you can have both! Whether it’s a fresh, Irish lobster straight from their tank, or a dry-aged, grilled steak (or some classic Surf n Turf), you’ll find it all at Ouzos. There’s also an impressive drinks menu to peruse, whether you’re more of a cocktail fan (mocktails are served too!) or a wine lover, Ouzos has you covered, but please, don’t pair your fish with red wine…
Nova
Have you ever simultaneously craved tacos, and fish and chips, and a burger, but couldn’t pick where to go? Nova in Dalkey offers the solution for your dilemma! Serving international dishes ranging from Mexican, to Italian to American, this is the perfect restaurant for when you want to try a little bit of everything. Start off with some Prawns Pil Pil, have some Moules Marieniere or some chargrilled lamb chops, and finish off with a New York cheesecake. Nova is also open for brunch, serving up the classics, as well as some unique options like bubble waffles or salmon Benedict with sweet potato Rosti. Sounds like an international dream!
The Queens Dalkey
Anyone for a little bit of history? The Queens Dalkey was established in 1745! Although it has been refurbished, it was done with the intention of maintaining the spot’s original features, telling the story of its history within the Dalkey landscape. Here, you’ll find a number of exciting dishes, like pork terrine schnitzel and chickpea ratatouille. If you’re heading for a few drinks, their bar bites are equally as enticing – did someone say chicken skewers and tacos? Later in the evening, join them in The Vico for some live music and comedy – a fun few hours await!
Guinea Pig
Have a seat and enjoy some divine French seafood at the Guinea Pig. This isn’t just a regular seafood spot – owned by French restaurateur, Jérôme Fernandes, you’ll find dishes like Portmagee Crab meat and cod with beetroot and tartar sauce, or baked seabass with slow cooked Provençale vegetables, black olives and a caper crumb. Not a seafood fan? You’ll be equally as impressed with their Acacia honey roasted duck, or their duck liver paté with summer truffle and walnut toast. This spot is a must visit.
Bubbas Fish Market
Family-run restaurants will always have a little bit of extra love added into every visit, and Bubbas Fish Market is no different. With fish being their specialty, you’re sure to find a delicious selection of fresh seafood at your fingertips. Grilled lobster, seafood paella or fish tacos, whatever way you choose to have your seafood, you’ll leave her with a happy belly.
The Coliemore
Who doesn’t love a bit of pub grub on a sunny day? The Coliemore is a pub in Dalkey serving a selection of tasty dishes like crispy chicken wings, fried buttermilk chicken burgers and garlic and chilli linguine. Serving breakfast and lunch too, their inviting atmosphere is always open for diners to enjoy a delicious meal in their cosy surroundings. With live music from Thursdays to Saturdays, and a few rooms available for those to stay who want to explore a little more of Dalkey, you’ll be delighted with your time at The Coliemore.
Grapevine
A dinner menu designed to complement a wine shop’s offerings… sounds like the dream team! Grapevine is both a wine shop and a restaurant, with an extensive wine selection you’ll certainly be impressed by. Mussels, Prawns Pil Pil and seared rare tuna are just some of the decadent offerings at this Dalkey spot. Order a glass of Cava (or a bottle…) and tuck into what’s sure to be a delightful meal at Grapevine.
The Dalkey Duck
If you’re on the hunt for a fun, buzzy spot with great food and live music, The Dalkey Duck is the place to be. A wonderful spot to spend a sunny day, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer, a delicious burger or fish and chips, and some great tunes to finish it all off!
I’m a Palestinian who grew up in Cyprus and moved to Dublin in 2013, so I’ve had a mishmash of different cultures and cuisines surrounding me my whole life. I’m an avid foodie, and after realising that life as a lawyer was not for me, I studied media and became a radio host for Dublin City FM. I’m now writing for TheTaste full time, but I also have my own food blog where you can find a mixture of restaurant reviews and the occasional recipe. I talk a lot about being Palestinian; to be honest, I talk a lot in general. That’s why I did radio!
Dine by the Seaside at these Restaurants in Dalkey
